Trout Stream Magic! A Hands on Workshop

Did you know at least one tributary feeding Manchaug Pond is documented by Mass Wildlife as a “significant coldwater fisheries resource” supporting native brook trout populations?

(photo courtecy of Trout Unlimited)

A 2008 electrofishing survey recorded 120 native brook trout as well as white suckers, yellow bullheads and blacknose dace.

(MPA file photo June 2008)

If the presence of brook trout is old news to you, you may be interested to know that the Assistant Director of MassWildlife/Natural Heritage & Endangered Species Programs, Dr. Thomas French,PhD, submitted testimony to the Sutton Conservation Commission during the SCC public hearing process stating that last year’s survey team found “that the drawdown had created a disconnect between the stream and the pond…. Therefore, the project must not in any way diminish the ability of the river or the tributary to support coldwater and stocked trout species.”

If you are interested in learning more about our coldwater fisheries and how to protect them, this workshop if for you! Trout Stream Magic!

Join us for a two-part program to learn about native brook trout streams – our most pristine waterways – and how to protect them. Trout streams, or cold water fisheries, contribute the highest quality of water to Blackstone River headwater tributaries and the mainstem. The cool, highly oxygenated water provides habitat for trout and other sensitive organisms. They need extra protection from urban influences, and you can help.Come learn more about the inner workings of trout streams from leaf litter to the mystery of macroinvertebrates to the elusive brook trout. Part 1 is an evening presentation by Trout Unlimited, and Part 2 is a field trip to Worcester area’s three cold water fishery streams – Coal Mine Brook, Poor Farm Brook, and Sewell Brook – to really feel the magic of trout streams. Anglers welcome!

Part 1: Thursday, June 11, 7:00 pmLeaders: Donna Williams and Trout Unlimited ExpertsLocation: Broad Meadow Brook Visitor Center, 414 Massasoit Road, WorcesterThis program will include a PowerPoint presentation about trout habitat, a demonstration/display of live macro invertebrates that inhabit trout streams, and a demonstration of the art of fly-tying.

A special MPA thank you to Lisa Mosczynski for getting the Manchaug Pond tributary inspected and classified! AND to MassWildlife staff Richard Hartley and Todd Richard, Fisheries Biologists and Leana Fontaine, Fisheries Technician.